Criteria for item selection for a preference-based measure for use in economic evaluation

Area of Science:

• Health Economics
• Psychometrics
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Preference-based measures (PBMs) are crucial for health status assessment in cost-utility analyses.
• Scoring relies on general population preference weights, necessitating robust measure development.
• Existing criteria for patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) need expansion for PBMs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish comprehensive criteria for developing new preference-based measures.
• To guide the selection of valid and suitable items for PBMs.
• To minimize challenges during the valuation phase of PBM development.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing PROM development criteria.
• Incorporation of additional considerations specific to PBMs.
• Development of 22 distinct criteria for item selection.

Main Results:

• The study outlines 22 criteria addressing item phrasing, domain coverage, outcome focus, and suitability for valuation.
• Criteria ensure items accurately capture patient health and are appropriate for preference elicitation.
• The framework addresses potential conflicts between criteria during item selection.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to these criteria enhances the development of high-quality preference-based measures.
• Improved item selection leads to more reliable preference weights and valid cost-utility analyses.
• This work harmonizes existing standards and addresses unique PBM development needs.